The process of freeze drying is otherwise called lyophilization, cryodesiccation or lyophilisation. It’s a procedure of dehydration that’s usually found in the preservation of products which are perishable, since it helps it be a lot more transportable . How it works is through the freezing of the merchandise, and then there’s a reduction of the pressure that surrounds it. What this does is to cause the water that’s become frozen to go from its solid state to the stage where it becomes gas. What it’s in essence could be the removing of the water that is present in food so that it can be eaten and/or transported in its frozen, dry state.
This freeze-dried process was commercially developed at some point in World War II. It was utilized as a preservation of penicillin in addition to blood plasma. A machine referred to as a freeze-dryer is found in the process. There is a big cavity where in actuality the freezing of the merchandise is done, along with a vacuum pump that is used to eliminate the water/moisture form the product. Following this is done, then there’s the applying of heat that serves to accelerate the sublimation process. There’s then condensation, wherein the vaporized solvent is removed from the chamber of the vacuum with the conversion of the solvent to a good state. When this is done, the separation of the water/moisture from the product has been completed.
Different Types of Freeze-Dried Foods
Nearly any type of food can be freeze-dried to remove the water, allowing the food to last for many years without spoiling. Fruits and vegetables are some of the most commonly freeze-dried foods and are often eaten dried rather than being rehydrated before eating. Meats, grains and flavored beverages are also commonly freeze dried. Usually water is added to these foods before they are eaten.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are often freeze-dried. Fruits are usually sliced into bite-sized pieces so that they can be enjoyed right out of the pouch. Though it is possible to add water to these freeze-dried foods to reconstitute them, many people choose to enjoy them as crunchy fruit chips which are much healthier than fruit chips, such as banana chips, that are made by frying slices of fruit in oil. Vegetables are also commonly freeze-dried and may be enjoyed freeze-dried or may be reconstituted and cooked.
Beverages can also be freeze-dried. Instant coffee is commonly freeze-dried so that it will last longer without losing its flavor. Pouches of powdered drink mixes are also freeze-dried and allow sweetened or fruit-juice flavored beverages to be made from plain water. Certain ingredients, such as herbs and spices, may also be freeze-dried to increase their shelf-life.
The popularity of freeze-dried foods has spawned a variety of companies that specialize in creating prepared meals. Foods such as lasagna, rice pilaf, stir fry, and fajitas can all be cooked and then freeze-dried for future consumption. These meals can be eaten when fresh foods are unavailable or when a person wants to save time by preparing a quick, easy meal.
Some of the most recognizable types of freeze-dried foods are pouches of freeze-dried ice cream. These products have been popular as a novelty dessert item and have been marketed as “astronaut ice cream” because they have been eaten by people in space. Many foods that astronauts eat are freeze-dried because they are easier to eat in the absence of gravity.
Freeze-dried foods can be bought individually or in packages that contain entire meals. Backpackers frequently make use of freeze-dried meals that come with everything needed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. All that needs to be done to enjoy these meals is to add water. Individual foods are also popular among people who wish to have more choice in what they will eat. Kits that contain a year’s supply or more of freeze-dried food are also available.
